VIBE

This “drive-through cathedral” (in the words of James Wolcott) spanning the East River between Manhattan and Brooklyn brought suspension-bridge technology to New York for the first time when it was completed in 1883. President Chester Arthur personally christened it, and 150,000 awe-struck visitors streamed across on the opening day. Even though its engineering mastery has long since been eclipsed, it retains its privileged place in the hearts of New Yorkers thanks to its striking silhouette. Visitors can either scope the bridge from nearby viewpoints (like the Brooklyn Bridge Park or the Brooklyn Heights Promenade) or make the 45-minute trek from bank to bank on the pedestrian and bike lanes that run across its center.

GO HERE WITH

Architecture buffs; photographers looking for the perfect skyline shot

WHY WE LIKE IT

It’s an icon that’s been capturing imaginations for over a century. And did we mention the astounding views? Our favorite way to visit is by starting with a walk across from Manhattan at sunset to get hang-on-the-wall-worthy photos of the skyline, nourishing ourselves Brooklyn-style at Grimaldi’s (expect waits measured in hours), and making a sweet finish with a stop at the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory on Fulton Landing, which is close to the bridge entrance on the Brooklyn side.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

It can be a little tricky to actually get on the bridge. From Manhattan, exit the City Hall subway stop, and you can see the walkway to enter the bridge on your left. From Brooklyn, look for the stairs to the bridge walkway at Cadman Plaza East.

GOOD TO KNOW

The bridge has a fascinating history. Juicy tidbits include the fact that though it was designed by John Augustus Roebling, it was his invalid son Washington who ultimately completed the project (through judicious use of a telescope and the help of his engineering wiz wife Emily). Originally, there were concerns that the bridge would collapse, but P.T. Barnum generously volunteered to allay such fears by leading a troupe of elephants across it in 1884. More recently, during times of disasters and emergencies (like power blackouts and 9/11), when other modes of transport were closed, the Brooklyn Bridge has served as a crucial means for Manhattan-Brooklyn crossings. If you’re planning a visit to the famous Grimaldi’s, know that there is a no-reservation, no-delivery policy. This means that on the weekends, lines can be brutal. Try visiting on a weekday or going for a late lunch to ensure you won’t be asked to wait two hours.

CLOSEST COMPS

The Golden Gate Bridge (San Francisco); Tower Bridge (London); London Eye (London); Great Wall (Beijing); Eiffel Tower (Paris)